In recent years, consumer interest in turnips has increased again, the RLV reported last week. This is reflected in this year's sales figures, says turnip producer and trader Florian Jochims. "We have not felt any disadvantages from Corona. On the contrary, we have been able to sell more, especially in the first half of the season."
Due to the rapid destocking and the good sales figures in food retail, the season will end a few weeks earlier this year, says Jochims. "Normally we can deliver German goods from July into March or even April. However, from today's perspective, the last stock of this season will be delivered in about three weeks."
Field clearing
Celeriac: regional products in vogue
In addition to turnips, the Dithmarsch vegetable trader also offers home-grown celeriac. Jochims observes that sales figures are also satisfactory in this business segment. "Sales are at about the usual level. We have tended to expand our cultivation capacity in recent years so that we can offer German products for longer. Holland is still the leader and sets the price. However, German celeriac is trendy, especially if you bring good qualities to the market."
The Dithmarschen vegetable field.
Dutch produce is usually available 12 months a year, whereas the German season lasts from about August to May. "We definitely try to get to the market as early as possible, but it's a bit easier to extend the German season a bit further. There are somewhat better opportunities for us producers and traders," Jochims explains.
Delivery delays for British imports
Apart from a slightly below-average Christmas business, the root vegetable market has been spared from corona-related sales losses. The Brexit agreement is all the more relevant for the trade segment, emphasises Jochims, who is partly dependent on imported goods from Great Britain after the conclusion of the German turnip campaign.
"Normally, the goods reach us within three to four days after loading, but currently we have to reckon with delivery times of around 14 days. 
That is of course a considerable delay in delivery. On the other hand, we are in a transitional phase, so it is difficult to judge whether the situation regarding agricultural imports will relax to some extent."
Growth potential for root vegetables exists
All in all, Jochims is particularly positive about the future of the two commodity categories. "Two years ago I already expected sales figures to increase. This was a correct forecast. Regionally produced vegetables are on the rise and retailers have been able to successfully challenge sales with smaller pack sizes and product concepts. I also clearly see further growth potential: from my point of view, sales will also gradually increase in the next few years."
For more information:
Jochims Steckrüben-Handels-GmbH & Co. KG
Florian Jochims
Hohe Str. 1
25704 Elpersbüttel
+49 4832 2287
[email protected]
